Expert: Jeff Laatsch - 1/23/2007

Question
I'm currently completing a Business Degree program at the University of Michigan.  I'm on track to finish in the Spring of 2008 graduating the following Summer.  I'll be enrolling in a Dual MBA/MSM program at the University of Colorado in the Fall of that same year.  With any master's program GMAT qualifying is essential, I should do well for qualifying purposes to many programs.  I'm already preparing for this test as we speak.  If you haven't noticed, I'm a very disciplined and focused results oriented achiever. Probably the result of being a bit older than the typical 20-something student. Completing this much delayed educational journey at this time, is the result of a deeply centered personal challenge.  So, bear in mind that this academic pursuit is not entirely for career purposes but has become personal.   I have an extensive background in business with application skills involving IT and IS.  Over the years, I have obtained some moderate programming skills while a member of the US Armed Forces.  I've always had a deep desire to get a degree in Computer Science.  Now that I'm close to completing my Bachelor's in business , would it be advisable to pursue a 2nd Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, or just obtain a Masters of Science in Computer Science since the course of study would be similar?  This dilemma has been very troubling to me as I've gotten closer to my objectives. I was told that a 2nd Bachelor's would be a waste of time. Do you agree with that assumption?  Any input will be greatly appreciated  

Answer
FC,

Wow impressive. Yes pursuing a second Bachelor's degree would be a waste of time since you would have a Master Of Business Administration. Now I am curious to the MSM or Master of Science in Management.

You have to make a choice here with reference to your path in which you are choosing. If you choose a "Management" path then you will spend less time focusing on the more technical aspects of Computer Science such as programming, computers, etc. And focus more on developing your leadership skills.

You have started at the opposite end of most people getting into the Computer Science field. Usually people get there Bachelors degree then spend a few years in the technical end. Then they make a decision to follow the Management path or Technical Path.

In todays society, a good IS or IT manager will have two major skills: Business management and Technology Management they also have to have what is called 'enabling skills' or 'people skills'. This normally is adquired in the field working with people.

Your background sugguest the management path with the MBA and MSM. I would recommend that you continue to focus on this and learn to master Basic management skills emphasising the ability to create workable budgets. Then on the Technology side simple focus on a specialized area such as : Networks, Program or Project Management or IS management.

With your military training, and drive you have the ability to become successful. But be patient because there are some things such as people skills and learning to play the tactful game within management that will take time, OK.

Good Luck.
Kind Regards,
Jeff